Frozen Dim Sum: Top Picks for a Cantonese Feast at Home

Suddenly craving Asian steamed dumplings?? No time to run to a restaurant?? Good news: enjoying the authentic flavours of a Cantonese meal at home has never been easier, thanks to a range of frozen dim sum that has finally reached a truly high level of quality. No more compromising on taste or texture.

As the Head of Product Recommendations at Joybuy, my mission is to find the very best products for you. In this guide, I'll give you all the keys to choosing items that will turn your kitchen into a genuine Cantonese tea house, whether for a quick Asian appetiser or a friendly dinner.

How to Choose the Best Frozen Dim Sum?: 3 Key Criteria

Before we get to our selection, here are the points to check to ensure you make the right choice when shopping online.

1. Examine the Ingredients and Filling

The quality of a dim sum lies primarily in its filling. Take a close look at the ingredient list. For specialities like cheung fun shrimp rolls or har gow shrimp dumplings, the proportion of shrimp is crucial. The presence of whole shrimp rather than a simple paste is an excellent indicator of quality, guaranteeing a much more satisfying bite and texture.

2. Match the Dumpling Type to the Occasion

The world of dim sum is vast. Each type of dumpling has its own unique character?:

• Har Gow (Shrimp Dumpling)?: With its thin, translucent skin made from wheat and tapioca starch, this is a delicate classic, perfect for starting a meal.
• Siu Mai (Pork and Shrimp Dumpling)?: Recognisable by its small, open-topped basket shape, its filling is generally denser and more flavourful. Frozen siu mai is a heartier option, ideal as an appetiser or as part of a main course.
• Cheung Fun (Steamed Rice Noodle Roll)?: These silky rice noodle rolls, often filled with shrimp or pork, are a dish in their own right. Though rarer in the frozen section, they are the perfect choice to impress your guests.

3. Prioritise Simple Preparation

The key advantage of frozen dim sum is its convenience. Steaming remains the most common method and the one that best preserves the flavours. Check that the instructions are clear and don't require advanced equipment beyond a simple steamer basket or a suitable cooker. The best products are designed to be cooked from frozen for maximum time savings.

Top Frozen Dim Sum Picks

We have selected three products that stand out for their quality and their ability to recreate an authentic at-home experience.

1. Freshasia Shrimp Cheung Fun 444g

Why this product stands out?? Cheung Fun is an iconic dish of yum cha (Cantonese brunch) and is nearly impossible to make successfully from scratch at home. Freshasia offers a frozen version that remarkably captures the unique texture of this dish. The rice noodle is thin and silky, and each roll is filled with whole shrimp. The real standout feature?? The included packet of specially prepared soy sauce, which helps recreate that authentic restaurant taste.

Highlights?:

• Authentic texture?: The rice noodle remains smooth and melts in your mouth after steaming.
• Quality filling?: Contains real shrimp for a pleasant bite.
• All-in-one?: The included sauce means you don't have to prepare your own seasoning.
• Convenience?: Ready in minutes by steaming straight from the freezer.

Who is it for?? For connoisseurs who want to experience the specific flavour and texture of cheung fun shrimp rolls without leaving home. It's an excellent choice for a light lunch or an out-of-the-ordinary starter.

2. Delico Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow) 1kg

Why this product stands out?? Har Gow is the ultimate test of a dim sum's quality. Delico's version excels with a wrapper that turns delicately translucent when cooked, revealing a generous filling. The economical 1?kg size makes it a very practical solution for families or for those who regularly host gatherings.

Highlights?:

• Delicate wrapper?: The wheat and tapioca starch wrapper achieves the translucency expected of a good Har Gow.
• Generous filling?: The filling is made with 60% shrimp, delivering a bold taste and satisfying texture.
• Value pack?: The 1?kg bag is perfect for always having a quality option on hand.
• A masterfully executed classic?: A reliable choice for newcomers or for rediscovering the pleasure of har gow shrimp dumplings.

Who is it for?? Ideal for large gatherings, dinner parties with friends, or simply for Har Gow lovers who want to keep a stash in their freezer. It's the perfect solution for a quick Asian appetiser that everyone will enjoy.

3. Freshasia Shrimp Siu Mai 500g

Why this product stands out?? This frozen siu mai from Freshasia offers a flavourful recipe that combines shrimp and fish paste. This pairing, enriched with jicama and carrots, provides a texture that is both firm and juicy, along with a pronounced umami flavour. Its traditional open-topped basket shape is also very appetising.

Highlights?:

• Complex flavour?: The combination of 32.2% fish paste and 19.7% shrimp creates a rich taste profile.
• Interesting texture?: The mix of vegetables and seafood offers a pleasant bite.
• Quick to cook?: Ready in just 8 to 9 minutes by steaming.
• Elegant presentation?: A look that does justice to this great classic of Asian steamed dumplings.

Who is it for?? Perfect for those who appreciate intense seafood flavours and a more substantial texture. It's an excellent alternative to shrimp-only dumplings and an ideal gateway into the world of Siu Mai.

And for a Sweet Finish??

After these savoury delights, why not continue your exploration of Asian flavours with a sweet touch?? If you're curious to discover original sweets to conclude your feast, take a look at our selection of fruit pastries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How can I cook frozen dim sum without a steamer basket?? If you don't have a bamboo or electric steamer, you can improvise. Place a heat-resistant metal colander inside a large pot. Pour in about 2-3 cm of water, making sure it doesn't touch the bottom of the colander. Bring to a boil, place the dim sum in the colander (on a sheet of parchment paper to prevent sticking), cover, and steam according to the instructions.

2. What's the difference between a Har Gow and a Siu Mai?? The main difference lies in the wrapper and the shape. Har Gow has a smooth, white starch-based wrapper that becomes translucent when cooked; it is completely sealed. Siu Mai uses a thin, yellow wheat-based wrapper and remains open at the top, revealing the filling. The filling of a Har Gow is traditionally shrimp, while a Siu Mai is often a mix of pork and shrimp or fish.

3. Can I refreeze dim sum that has been thawed?? No, it is strongly advised not to refreeze a thawed product. This not only degrades the texture and flavour of the dumplings but also poses a health risk. For the best results, always cook your frozen dim sum straight from the freezer and consume them shortly after preparation.